it's ryan's biggest ever debate stage. he's talking of studying 40 pounds of paperwork as republicans try to build up biden's debate skills. >> i've known paul for a long, long time. he's always hit the ball out of park, but let me tell you something. this is his first time. joe biden has been doing this since the 1800ism. >> reporter: six new polls show the race tightened after the first presidential debate especially in battleground state of virginia, florida, ohio, wisconsin and colorado. it puts more pressure on candidates tonight. however -- >> if either of these candidates make it about them, i think they're making a mistake. this is about governor romney and president obama. i think they'll both focus on thatch. >> reporter: it's a dual challenge. steal the stage for tonight and set the stage for their running mates for the rest of the campaign. >> when the debate starts at 9:00 tonight, tune into wusa9 to hear what the candidates have to say. at the same time join us online at www.wusa9.com to read what usa today r